1. Know Your State and Local Code
Knowing your code requirements is a key part of ensuring your railing is safe and secure. In addition to your state’s regulations, you might also have local code requirements to keep track of. One of the best things you can do is check in with your local building department or zoning board. They’ll be able to confirm everything you need to know before you install your railing.
Express cable railing is engineered to exceed code requirements, including the three main railing codes:
- 4-inch and 6-inch Sphere Rules
- Handrail & Guardrail Height
- Force & Load Requirements
2. Size Up Your Space
Accurate measurements are crucial when it comes to properly engineering and manufacturing your cable railing system. Each space is different and should be measured with care in order to collect the most accurate dimensions.
To know what you’ll need for your Express railing, you’ll need to determine three things:
- Level Run Measurements: Measure the length of each side of your deck, balcony, or other space.
- Stair Measurements: Measure the total length, number of steps, and riser angle.
- Mounting Surface: Identify the material type (wood, concrete, fascia, etc.).
3. Choose Your Components
After measuring your space, gather the necessary materials, including posts, cables, handrails, terminals, and tools. Here’s what to prepare:
- Post Type: Choose surface-mount or side-mount posts.
- Line Post Spacing: A spacing of 4 ft (1.2m) between the end and corner posts is generally recommended for optimal support.though local codes should always be verified.
- Corner Posts: Use one corner post per 90° turn.
- Stair/Angle Posts: Add one angle post every 4 ft based on your stair incline.
- Cable Length: Prepare enough cable for your total linear footage × number of post holes.
- Tools Needed: Have the required installation tools ready.
End & Line Post
BLIKA cable railing posts function as both end posts and line posts, making selection simple
- For proper stability, install two posts every 4 feet, approximately 1.22 meters.
- Mounting options include level mount, angle mount, and side mount.
- Color options are black and silver.
- Size options are 36 inches and 42 inches.
Corner Post
Designed for smooth 90° turns in BLIKA cable railing systems
- Requires 1 corner post per 90° corner
- Supports horizontal, angled, or side-mount installations
- Available in Black or Silver finishes
- Height options: 36 inches or 42 inches
Handrail
A safe top guard with a comfortable, secure grip.
- Matches the full length of your railing run
- Available in standard or beverage-width metal options
- Comes in black or silver to match your BLIKA railing system
- Works seamlessly with multiple corner connectors for smooth transitions
Cable
Strong stainless steel cables for BLIKA cable railing systems.
- 10 cables for 36-inch posts / 12 cables for 42-inch posts
- Compatible with all BLIKA post types
- 1/8 inch (3.18mm) and 3/16 inch (4.8mm)
- Material options: T304 or T316 stainless steel
- Recommended length: Total perimeter × 10 / × 12, plus 3–5 meters extra for adjustments
Terminals
Steel cable fasteners for BLIKA cable railing systems.
- Choose swageless (patented) or crimp-style terminals
- Used at each cable run termination
- Compatible with level, angle, and side-mount installations
- Color options: Black or Silver
Tools
Professional installation tools designed for BLIKA cable railing systems.
- 10-ton hydraulic crimping & cable cutter for heavy-duty cable work
- Upgraded multi-angle drill guide jig for precise alignment
- Upgraded hydraulic crimping & cable cutter for clean, secure terminations
Ideal for DIY users installing cable railing kits with professional results
4. Complete Your Purchase
Finally, you’re ready to purchase the cable railing.
If you still have any doubts, that’s perfectly fine. Feel free to call us anytime. Our sales representatives will assist you throughout the entire process to ensure you have all the accurate measurements and required components.
After placing your order, free shipping is available on all BLIKA products, and your items will be prepared and shipped within 1-3 business days.
Answers to your top questions
Contact SupportWhat do I need to do before I get started?
Before assembling your cable railing system, make sure to:
- Measure your space accurately:
Measure each run, opening, and stair incline to ensure correct component selection.
- Confirm your post layout:
Plan where end, line, and corner posts will be placed (typically every 4 ft).
- Choose your mounting type:
Decide whether you need surface mount, angle mount, or side mount posts.
- Prepare for ordering: These details ensure you purchase the correct BLIKA railing components or cable railing kits for your project.
What is the standard spacing for BLIKA posts and cables?
When planning your layout, a spacing of 4 ft (1.2m) between the end and corner posts is generally recommended for optimal support. This is the standard interval for our line posts.
Regarding the cables, BLIKA systems are designed to meet code requirements, including the strict "4-Inch Sphere Rule." To achieve this, the maximum recommended cable spacing is 3 inches to ensure the railing passes necessary deflection tests.
Important Codes to Verify: While 4 ft spacing is our general recommendation, local codes concerning post spacing, cable spacing, and guard height can vary significantly. For example, the minimum height requirement for railings is typically 36 inches (IRC standard), but some jurisdictions (like California) have stricter rules requiring a minimum height of 42 inches. You must always adhere to the specific building codes for your local area.
For instance, guard height requirements are referenced in codes like CACLARC2020P1-Pt03-Ch03-SecR312.1.2.
How do I know which components I need for my project?
Most customers only need posts, handrails, cables, and terminals. BLIKA offers complete cable railing kits and individual parts, so you can choose based on your layout. Simply measure your run, count your posts (every 4 ft), and select the number of cables needed (10 for 36”, 12 for 42”).
Are BLIKA cable railing kits easy to install for beginners?
Yes. BLIKA railing systems are designed for simple DIY installation, and all posts arrive pre-drilled, so you don’t need to drill any holes yourself. Once your measurements and post layout are confirmed, the system goes together smoothly—just set the posts, run the cables through the pre-aligned holes, and tighten the swageless or crimp-style terminals. With the handrails attaching last, most homeowners can install a complete cable railing system or BLIKA cable railing kit using only basic household tools.
Can cable railing be installed on stairs or angled surfaces?
Absolutely. BLIKA offers angle posts, adjustable fittings, and handrail connectors that work for both stair runs and sloped surfaces. Just measure the incline and choose angle-compatible components.